Saturday, 12 July 2025

Things to do in Leeds, Bradford, Huddersfield, London, Scotland, Ireland and more

Got plans for this scorching weekend? Here are a few ideas of things to do in Leeds, Bradford, Huddersfield, London, Scotland, Ireland and more:



Gif of events in the email

Hello, sunshine!


What time is it? Summer time! Come along for tonnes of free family fun in the sun, as well as plenty of opportunities to learn new skills outside of the classroom this summer holiday. 

Scroll on to check out more of our family fun.


Installation view of Yoshitomo Nara. In the Milky Lake /Thinking One, 2011. Photo: Mark Blower. Courtesy the artist and the Hayward Gallery.

Yoshitomo Nara

UNTIL SUN 31 AUG

Dive into the captivating, creative world of Yoshitomo Nara in the largest European retrospective of one of Japan’s most celebrated artists.

Under-12s go free.

★★★★★ 'punk rock art for your inner child' The London Standard

★★★★ 'A true joy to look at' Time Out

★★★★ The Guardian


Come and play (again)

Parent and child walking through the entrance to the Replay recycled play space.

‘It’s constantly surprising’ – behind REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground

How do you combine the fun and endless possibilities of play with a reminder about the importance of sustainability?


A little child with ginger hair is peeking through an installation in Replay.

REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground

UNTIL SUN 24 AUG

REPLAY has been extended due to popular demand! Don't miss out on your chance to enter an endless world of play and invention in a limitless recycled playground for children and their grown-ups to tap into their imaginations.



Artwork with three images overlaying each other in different dance shape and different colour

Dance Your Way Home: Public Art

UNTIL MON 25 AUG

Discover incredible free art across our site with uplifting and inspiring works connected to the theme of our summer season, Dance Your Way Home.

Take a tour with behind-the-scenes insights, on the Bloomberg Connects app.


Take part

A group of performers on stage playing instruments and one woman singing.

Ura Matsuri's Daylight Ninjas

SAT 19 JUL

Join us on the Riverside Terrace for an afternoon of East and South East Asian culture, making and transformation into ninjas.

This event is British Sign Language interpreted (BSL). 

BSL access symbol


Group of young people dancing in a dark room with bunting and fairy lights, they are smiling and talking

Ásrún Magnúsdóttir: Listening Party

SAT 2 & SUN 3 AUG

Get ready to be moved as London teenagers dance to their favourite songs in this word-of-mouth hit by one of Iceland’s leading theatre makers.

All performances are Relaxed Performances.

Relaxed performance access symbol

Performer call out!

Love music and performing? We’re looking for young people aged 13 – 18 to take part in a performance of Listening Party from theatre maker Ásrún Magnúsdóttir. Apply by Mon 7 Jul.

Dancers from Rain Crew battling

Move Like You with Rain Crew

SUN 17 AUG

With categories open to all, workshops and DJ sets to lose yourself on the dance floor, this battle is ready for all types of dance and invites you to move like you.

A group of children and adults draw on paper on the floor.

Fun DMC 10th Birthday 

MON 25 AUG

Celebrate the end of summer and a landmark occasion for FUN DMC, as they bring their family friendly block party vibes to the Riverside Terrace.


Stars of tomorrow

Group of secondary school musicians on a wooden stage seated in an orchestra layout with a conductor stood in the middle

Lambeth Music Service: Harmonise! Summer Showcase

MON 14 JUL

Young musicians from Brixton Hill Music Centre and In Harmony Lambeth join together to showcase their amazing musical skills in a spectacular concert.

A young person playing the saxophone with someone singing into a mic behind them

Tomorrow's Warriors Extraordinary Summer Showcase

SUN 3 AUG

Catch live music from the talented artists of Tomorrow’s Warriors, featuring some of the finest young jazz musicians on London’s fizzing scene right now.


Rotating gif of presents

Say thank you

Say thanks in style with our end-of-year gifting range: a statement mug, scented candle or a simple, meaningful thank-you card. Shop thoughtful gifts perfect for every great teacher.



Image credits:

Installation view of Yoshitomo Nara. In the Milky Lake /Thinking One, 2011. Photo by Mark Blower. Courtesy the artist and the Hayward Gallery.

Southbank Centre logo


Southbank Centre is a charity registered in England and Wales No.298909. Registered office: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX

Decorative image

Time to enjoy yourself


This one's for the readers: the London Literature Festival line-up just dropped, and it's a corker!

Plus, fill your week with more literature, gigs, classical and some exciting performances. Scroll on to enjoy.


Compliments Please

A person with blonde hair and wearing a blue outfit sitting on stacked chairs in a blue/grey room.

London Literature Festival

TUE 21 OCT – SUN 2 NOV

Exciting names, inspiring stories and conversations you'll want to be a part of, co-curated by Rebecca Lucy Taylor, aka Self Esteem.


Literary picks this week


A person wearing white, looking to the camera with a silver artwork behind them and a drawing in front

Seeing Ghosts: Pio Abad & Susan Barker

SAT 19 JUL

Portrait of a person with short dark hair, wearing a blue t-shirt and has brown eyes

Epic Intimacies: Tash Aw & Will Harris

SAT 19 JUL

Person wearing black turtle neck standing in front of colourful mosaic wall

Language and Lineage: Poetry Reading

SAT 19 JUL

A woman in a red blouse sat smiling at the camera, she wears dark round glasses

Love in the Time of Tech: Elaine Castillo & John Lau

SAT 19 JUL

Black and white photograph of Irvine welsh in a dark jumper.

Irvine Welsh: Men in Love

SUN 20 JUL


Experience music like no other

Woman caught in action playing drums, she is wearing all black

Ye Xian: A Story Untold

THU 17 JUL

Contemporary music and storytelling combine in a new adaptation of the Chinese folk story Ye Xian for Chinese and Western instruments, from composer Alex Ho.

A composite image of Ed Jones playing the saxophone and Yuriko Takagi looking into a film camera

Ayatori & Lotus Code

SUN 20 JUL

Explore ambient soundscapes, jazz, photography and live video at this enthralling event featuring Yuriko Takagi, Ed Jones, Toku and more.

Three musicians on stage playing piano, double bass and singing.

No One's an Island

SUN 20 JUL

Award-winning artists Kit Downes and Thomas Morgan explore the sound of Emi Makabe's voice and shamisen playing in a gig combining contemporary jazz and Japanese folk music.


It's showtime

Group of people all wearing white hoodies moving in a blur through a large space with audience

Tianzhuo Chen: TRANCE

FRI 18 JUL

A 12-hour theatre-rave odyssey, featuring dance, music and visual art, from leading Chinese artist Tianzhuo Chen and his Asian Dope Boys collective.

Ura Matsuri 2025

SAT 19 JUL

Come along and join an evening of live music, dance and storytelling celebrating the diverse heritage of the East and South East Asian diaspora in the UK.

The musician and artist Kazuko Hohki, a middle-aged Japanese woman with short hair that is shaved up one side and swept off to the other. The words 'My Mixtape' are placed over the artist

My Mixtape: Kazuko Hohki’s 10 Ura Matsuri favourites

Ahead of next weekend's ESEA Encounters, Frank Chickens' frontwoman Kazuko Hohki shares a playlist of East and South East Asian artists, (almost) all of which have featured at her annual Ura Matsuri events.


Hop to the Hayward Gallery

Yoshitomo Nara smiling at the camera with a play button overlaid on

Yoshitomo Nara's advice for young artists

In a series of questions for young students, Nara stresses the importance of creative independence, self-reliance and self-belief within his process of making work.

A gif showcasing the Nara merch

Shop now, before it's gone

Love our summer exhibition at the Hayward Gallery but missed out on the merchandise the first time round? Good news: Yoshitomo Nara merchandise is back online!

A little child with ginger hair is peeking through an installation in Replay.

Yoshitomo Nara

UNTIL SUN 31 AUG

Dive into the captivating, creative world of Yoshitomo Nara in the largest European retrospective of one of Japan’s most celebrated artists.

★★★★ 'A true joy to look at' Time Out


Coming soon

Five performers wearing grey and white tracksuits and black shoes moving with hunched over bodies

Jeremy Nedd: from rock to rock

WED 23 & THU 24 JUL

A limousine with gratiffi on and a crown watching

WE SHOULD HAVE NEVER WALKED ON THE MOON

WED 3 – SAT 6 SEP


From our friends


Hyper Japan 

FRI 18 – SUN 20 JUL | OLYMPIA EVENTS

HYPER JAPAN festival is back and bigger than ever, bursting with mouth-watering street food, jaw-dropping cosplay, electrifying live music and vibrant culture.

Selah

UNTIL SUN 27 JUL | 180 STRAND

The largest exhibition to date of photographer and filmmaker Gabriel Moses, showcasing his work across the worlds of fashion, music, and sport, including the premiere of new work.

Image credits:

Installation view of Yoshitomo Nara. Courtesy the artist and the Hayward Gallery. Photo by Mark Blower.

Southbank Centre logo


Southbank Centre is a charity registered in England and Wales No.298909. Registered office: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX

VisitAberdeenshire logo
Drum castle in bloom

Image: Drum castle

Sail into summer in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire

This summer, why not venture somewhere that feels refreshingly different, a place where castles meet coastlines, and culture lives around every corner? Whether you're craving wide-open spaces, locally inspired flavours, or a story to tell long after the journey ends, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire offer the perfect blend of exploration, connection and calm.

Image of the Bima Suci Tall Ships crew

Image credit: Port of Aberdeen - Bima Suci Tall Ships Races crew

Tall Ships Races

The world’s most breathtaking Tall Ships are sailing into Aberdeen from 19–22 July and the atmosphere promises to be electric.

Enjoy four days of free, family-friendly festivities, from live music and street performances to food stalls, ship tours, and dazzling displays along the harbour.

It’s more than a festival, it’s an unforgettable experience by the sea. With over 400,000 visits expected, we recommend booking your accommodation early to make the most of your trip.

Image credit: P&J Live

Step Into the World of Van Gogh

This summer, prepare to be immersed in art like never before. Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience arrives at P&J Live from 12 July, bringing the work of one of the world’s most iconic artists to life in spectacular fashion.

Seen by over five million people across North America, this cutting-edge experience blends more than 300 of Van Gogh’s masterpieces with stunning projections, a specially curated musical score, and the artist’s own words, guiding you through a powerful journey from darkness to light.

Craigievar Castle is a stunning pink-hued fairytale castle nestled in Aberdeenshire, famed for its classic Scottish Baronial architecture and enchanting turrets.

Image: Craigievar Castle

Explore a land of 263 castles 

From dramatic cliffside ruins to turreted fairytale estates, Aberdeenshire is home to more castles than anywhere else in the UK, 263, to be exact.

Step into the stories of Scotland’s North-east as you explore royal retreats, battlefield landmarks, and centuries-old secrets tucked into the hills. Whether you're wandering the grounds of Balmoral, marvelling at the storybook beauty of Craigievar, or discovering hidden gems like Dunnottar Castle, perched high above the sea, every visit promises something unforgettable.

Pennan Beach’s peaceful shoreline features a mix of pebbles and sand, nestled between dramatic cliffs and the charming village by the North Sea.

Image: Pennan

Find your perfect shoreline

Windswept, golden, and wonderfully uncrowded, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire’s coastline is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, each with its own unique character and charm.

Whether you’re strolling barefoot on Balmedie’s endless sands, seal-spotting at Newburgh, watching the waves roll in at St Cyrus, or venturing off the beaten path to discover quiet coves and hidden bays, there’s a perfect spot for every mood and moment.

With so many beaches to explore, every visit promises a new discovery and a fresh chance to connect with Scotland’s spectacular coastal beauty.

Maryculter House Hotel

Image: Maryculter House

Where will you rest your head?

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire offer accommodation to suit every traveller’s style from charming boutique hotels and elegant 5-star stays to cosy cottages and welcoming country lodges.

Bringing your furry friend? Many of our stays are pet-friendly, so your whole family can enjoy the adventure together. 

Whether you’re after a stylish city break, a peaceful rural retreat, or somewhere wonderfully unique, you’ll find it here, with warm Scottish hospitality waiting to welcome you.

Looking for more inspiration? Here's some blogs we think you'll love...

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Edinburgh Logo

July 2025

Edinburgh this July

July is a vibrant time to be in Edinburgh, with the city buzzing in anticipation of summer’s highlights.

In this month’s newsletter, we’re diving into everything that makes the city shine this season – from world-renowned festivals to unforgettable ways to mark your graduation. You’ll also discover award-winning food and drink spots, weather-proof adventures to keep you exploring come rain or shine, and a perfect summer escape to Lost Shore Surf Resort. Plus, we’ve rounded up the top events you won’t want to miss. Let the summer begin!

 
Explore Edinburgh in July
 

 

Summer festivals

Looking for a mind-blowing, captivating and enthralling festival this summer? In Edinburgh, you’re spoilt for choice!

From music, theatre and dance, to art, books and film, however you like your entertainment you’re sure to find it here.

©Edinburgh International Book Festival

 
Explore Edinburgh’s summer festivals
 

 

Graduation celebrations

Caps off to the Class of 2025 – now it’s time to celebrate in style in Edinburgh!

Across the city, several of Edinburgh’s attractions, bars and eateries are rolling out the red carpet for graduates, so you can toast your success without draining your wallet.

©Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

 
Explore graduation offers in Edinburgh
 

 

Award-winning food and drink

Crowned the UK’s Most Exciting Food Destination by Good Food Guide in 2025, Edinburgh’s allure lies not just in its 7 Michelin-starred restaurants, but in its eclectic array of artisan bakeries, buzzing bars and bold, locally-driven menus.

Whether you’re planning a gastronomic getaway or a casual food tour, the city promises experiences that are as memorable as they are mouthwatering.

 
Explore Edinburgh’s award-winning food and drink
 

 

Weather-proof adventures

While we would love to say an Edinburgh summer is filled with wall-to-wall sunshine, sometimes it does rain.

But don't let the wet weather dampen your fun - from creative workshops to behind the scenes tours, discover things to do in Scotland’s capital that don't need a brolly.

 
Explore weather-proof Edinburgh
 

 

Ride the waves

Calling all adventure seekers - think you need to travel to distant lands to catch the waves? Think again - Lost Shore, the world's first inland surf resort offers fun on the waves for everyone.

A place where thrill-seekers, families and wellness lovers can all come together, read on to get a taste of your next day of adventure.

 
Explore Lost Shore Surf Resort
 

 

Upcoming events

For fun family days out, strap yourself in for Truckfest; enjoy traditional piping and drumming at the UK Pipe Band Championships; come face to face with the rarest and most endangered primates at Monkeys: Our Primate Family, or sing-along to some of the UK’s best tribute performers at FoxFest.

For foodies, there’s the chance to master the art of pizza making with Dough-it Yourself Pizza Masterclass, or enjoy whisky and a BBQ at one of Edinburgh’s stunning rooftop locations, with Tipsy Midgie BBQ. Edinburgh Foodies Festival will be cooking up a storm with celebrity chefs, a range of delicious worldwide food and drink, and live music, while for the chance to learn about the role of coffee in shaping 18th century Edinburgh, don’t miss Closes & Coffee Underground Experience. 

Running over 10 days, and comprising theatre, comedy, workshops, tours and exhibitions, Edinburgh Deaf Festival is an accessible celebration of deaf culture, language and heritage. Taking place at the Scottish Parliament meanwhile, The Festival of Politics has lively debates and thought-provoking panels tackling some of the most pressing social, political and environmental issues of our time.

There’s the chance to learn more about lives of Edinburgh’s medieval citizens at Edinburgh’s First Burghers.

For art lovers, two major exhibitions open this month. Featuring 180 iconic fabrics showcasing the rich history of print, pattern and design, IKEA: Magical Patterns debuts at Dovecot Studios. At Royal Scottish Academy, Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years features drawings, photographs, films and sketchbooks by the renowned artist.

 
Explore more upcoming events
 
PhotoDalkeith

Explore the art of photography through a range of exhibitions, workshops and tours.

©VisitScotland, Kenny Lam

360 Fest

Enjoy stunt shows and interactive sessions at this family festival.

© Andy Catlin

Tabletop Scotland

With board, card and roleplaying games, be part of one of the UK’s largest gaming conventions.

 

 
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Hiking

A Sign to Book That Hiking Trip




Sometimes we just need a sign. A date in the diary. A little something just to tip the balance.

Our Early Bird Promotion could be just that for you.

If you’ve been thinking about booking a trip with us, then now is a lovely time to get things rolling. Here’s why:

→ Receive an outdoor kit voucher worth €120
→ Secure your 2026 adventure at its current 2025 price
→ Take your pick of travel dates–planning ahead means excellent availability
→ Enjoy the flexibility to change your dates up to 10 weeks before departure

You may already have a trip in mind, or all you know is that Ireland is definitely on your bucket list. Either way, by booking before the 14th of July, you can enjoy that first flutter of holiday excitement, the bonus of a €120 voucher and the promise of a fantastic adventure on the horizon.

Book Now

Which Trip Caught Your Eye?

The Causeway Coastal Route & Donegal

Hike the windswept Causeway Coast and on into Donegal’s wild mountains and beaches. Discover the Giant’s Causeway, Slieve League and more. Rich in myth and wildlife, this is one of Europe’s most unspoilt corners.

Explore This Tour
Deluxe - Highlights of Ireland

Explore Ireland’s legendary landscapes on this comprehensive hiking tour. From the Giant’s Causeway to the Cliffs of Moher, journey through national parks and storied coastlines with an expert local guide, enjoying wild beauty and warm welcomes.

Explore This Tour
Hiking & Island Hopping Ireland’s West Coast

Explore Ireland’s west coast by boat and boot, from the cliffs of Moher to the islands of Connemara. Visit Inisbofin, Clare Island and the Aran Islands, meeting local characters and uncovering Gaelic traditions on this unique cultural hiking adventure.

Explore This Tour

Don't Miss Out

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Early Bird 2026
 
 

Enjoy €120 & Effortless Adventure

 
 
 
 


 
 
 


Is there anything better than pulling back the curtains on a day where you’ve planned a long walk and realising the weather is just, well, perfect?

Here in Ireland, you may have heard (who hasn’t?) that sometimes our weather likes to keep you guessing. However, do you also know the best thing about our weather? It’s often the perfect temperature for exploring.

This is a place where you can walk for hours without wilting, where the air is cool and clear. It’s a country where you don’t need to hide from the heat or sneak along in the shadows. It’s full of rushing rivers, refreshing rainfall and soft, golden sunshine. 

So, if you’re craving beautiful landscapes, open skies and weather that makes you want to pack up your rucksack and head straight out the door, look no further. Make sure to book your 2026 adventure before the 14th to receive a €120 outdoor kit voucher, and hey, you probably don’t need to spend it on a fan.

 
 
 
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Beautiful, Breezy and Boundless

 
 
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Hiking Kerry & Clare
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Our holidays reviewed in your words…

 
quote 

Oh my gosh! I hardly know where to begin. Everything about the County Clare & County Kerry trip was amazing. Our guide, Declan, was awesome. His knowledge of the area was brilliant, and his enthusiasm was contagious. Each place we visited was magical in it's own way. The hikes were perfect.

 quote
 
Dawn Laine 02/11/2024
Hiking – Kerry & Clare
 
5 stars
 
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Copyright © 2019 Wilderness Ireland, All rights reserved.

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Welcome to Summer 2025!


The weather might swing from one extreme to the other but here at CBF we're consistent in our efforts to raise the funds needed to buy beautiful books for brilliant kids, and bring a love of reading and story to as many children as possible.


See what we've been up to and what's coming next!


 



Supertato Silliness

Sunday fun in the Free School

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Festival of Chichester CBF Events

Check out our Summer Events

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Summer Fundraiser

Children’s BookFest Hosts Memorable Fundraising Event


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